14th Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry

The “14th Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry” otherwise known simply as “Congress” is Australia’s largest genealogy conference. Organised by AFFHO (the Australasian Federation of Family History Organisations) this event that is only held every three years. in an Australian or New Zealand city.

This next congress will be held from Thursday 26 – Monday 30 March 2015 in Canberra, ACT

It’s not BIG in the same sense as RootsTech in the US, that can attract 10,000-15,000 people, but it is big for Australia. And for anyone that is wanting to learn everything they can about genealogy, take this opportunity to learn from so many experts.

Being in Canberra next is a plus for attendees, as it is Australia’s mecca for archives - The National Library of Australia, the National Archives of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, the National Film & Sound Archives, the National Museum of Australia, the Noel Butlin Archives Centre to mention a few.

If you bring along your non-genealogy family,  there’s plenty of things for them to do while you’re busy at the conference (http://www.visitcanberra.com.au/).

It is a four day conference, which makes the travel worthwhile. The length of the conference gives you ample time to meet, hear and learn from 34 world-renowned guest presenters. Many of these are Australian and New Zealand speakers, but there’s also quite a number of expert presenters from the northern hemisphere who’re making their way to Australia’s capital. For the speaker list, click here.

A wide variety of topics will be covered, so there really is something for everyone, including subjects for the beginner through to the advanced. Check the program here to see what the topics are. As well as a stimulating program there will be exhibitors as well.

You will get to meet, mix and mingle with many other genealogists, throughout the day, or at the various other social functions that Congress has organised.

8. If you’re attending be sure to register your research interests, so can maximise your chances of making a connection with someone.

The $550 cost is very reasonable for a four day conference, but if it is beyond your means, or you can’t attend for the full length of time, you can opt for just a single day for $140. There is  also an  EARLY BIRD PRICE of $495 if you book by 31 October 2014.

For more information about the Congress check out their website http://www.congress2015.org.au/

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